Goryeo porcelain discovered in Taean county

A total of 515 pieces of Goryeo green porcelain noted for its shapes, patterns, glazes and firing techniques were found in Taean County in South Chungcheong Province.

According to the National Maritime Museum, the porcelain could have been possibly produced in the 12th century to the 13th century at kilns in Buan or Gangjin in Jeolla Province during the Goryeo Kingdom (918-1392), given its making techniques and patterns.

The museum said that it recovered the relics from the sea 300 meters off the west coast of Mado. The shipwreck carrying the relics has not been found yet as it could be possibly buried, according to the museum.

The massive excavation began last year after a fisherman discovered a blue-green saucer when he pulled up a baby octopus trap from the sea, leading to the excavation of tens of thousands of lost ``treasures'' of the Goryeo Kingdom (918-1392).

From the marine excavation, the museum recovered a total of 22,572 pieces of Goryeo celadon pieces and a shipwreck carrying the porcelain.

The museum said that the recent excavation began after a fisherman reported finding 25 celadon pieces in his net three times last year.

Royal archives of the Goryeo Kingdom had recorded many shipwrecks in the waters near Taean County because of the strong currents.